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Major Foodies

Most of us eat plants in some part of our diet. Our human bodies are designed for plant consumption. To simplify matters, we have grouped the various into five major food groups that outline the major food groups (foodies):

Raw/Living Food – Where the food stays as close to the natural state as possible. The food can be heated or dehydrated within 50 degrees Celsius. Fruitarians are also within this group.

Vegetarian – There is a vast number of types of vegetarians, many depending on the cultural context. In India, milk is generally included in the vegetarian diet. Jain Vegetarianism is by far the most strict, where root vegetables are excluded as well. In the west, eggs and/or milk are generally accepted.

Vegan – Otherwise referred to as strict vegetarian, means no animal products have been used in the dish. Wholesome vegan meals, or strict vegetarian meals are the most closely aligned meals encouraged from the studies.

Macrobiotic – Is a variation of wholesome vegetarian food with small allowances for seafood. It focuses on eating grains as staple food, with fresh locally sourced vegetables. Refined and highly processed foods are not part of a macrobiotic diet.

Omnivore– While the majority of non-vegetarians eat meats and seafood, there are many different groups. Some exclude certain meats, like pork, or red meat, or only eat seafood. The growth of meat consumption in the last hundred years could be attributed to wealth, status, culture, strength and a sense of masculinity. While indigenous cultures ate non-veg food, it was consumed largely due to necessity amongst tribes like the Central African Masai and Arctic Inuits.

All the food groups above can be done poorly. We recommend eating food that you enjoy, and bringing in wholesome plant-based foods.

In developed nations using industrial farming methods, soil fertility has significantly decreased while pesticide use has increased. It would be nice to have organic food, without pesticides and better soil fertility. Organic food isn’t always as expensive as people think, but if it still causes you concern, try growing your own vegetables in your garden or on your balcony, or if you don’t have enough space, join a community garden.